The Cisco Network Simulator, Router Simulator & Switch Simulator. The Boson NetSim Network Simulator is an application that simulates Cisco Systems' networking hardware and software and is designed to aid the user in learning the Cisco IOS command structure.

NetSim utilizes Boson's proprietary Network Simulator, Router Simulator® and EROUTER® software technologies, along with the Boson Virtual Packet Technology® engine, to create individual packets. These packets are routed and switched through the simulated network, allowing NetSim to build an appropriate virtual routing table and simulate true networking. Other simulation products on the market do not support this level of functionality.

Boson offers a NetSim CCENT Network Simulator, CCNA Network Simulator and CCNP Network Simulator. Each supports the technologies and skills you will need for the respective certification. Boson NetSim provides more versatility and support than any other network simulation software on the market. NetSim software also includes a comprehensive lab menu that contains lessons and labs covering routing protocols, Cisco devices, switching, topological design and much more.

Advantages of Software-Based Network Simulation
Boson NetSim is a versatile tool and valuable asset, both in a classroom and for corporate use; it also provides a self-paced learning environment. For many individuals, the availability of Cisco routers and switches is often limited. The cost and fragility of equipment makes rack rentals impractical at this level. Boson NetSim makes it possible to design and configure a network with 42 different router models and 5 different switch models* to choose from without having to pay a lot of money, or worrying about transporting and damaging valuable equipment.

NetSim's router, switch and station simulation components contained within the software are the most advanced in the industry. Within NetSim, simulation of routers, switches and PCs is included in a completely customizable drag-and-drop network-simulation package. Furthermore, Boson NetSim simulates both switching bridge tables and routing protocol tables to allow you to go OUTSIDE of the labs and create your own labs using the Boson Network Designer.

Advanced Features Included With Boson NetSim
• Supports 42 routers, 7 switches* and 3 other devices
• Simulates network traffic with virtual packet technology
• Provides two different viewing styles: Telnet mode or Console mode
• Supports up to 200 devices on one Network Topology
• Allows instructors to create and include their own labs and offer grading for them
• Allows you to create NetSim simulated networks with the Boson Network Designer
• Includes non-Cisco devices, such as TFTP Server, TACACS+ and Packet Generator
• Enables users to access specific labs by conducting keyword and curriculum searches

Although all devices can be added to a custom topology, the commands needed to configure some devices are restricted depending on the license version. For example, 3550 switches can be added to a CCENT or CCNA custom topology. However, the commands needed to configure a 3550 switch are only supported in NetSim for CCNP.

NetSim 11 Enhancements:
• Added 7 new ICND1 and ICND2 labs
• Added support for filtering all show outputs with output modifiers
• Added support for configuring the Native VLAN
• Added support for Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet (PPPoE)
• Added support for Named Standard access control lists (ACLs)
• Added support for IPv6 ACLs
• Added support for Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP)
• Added support for System Message Logging
• Added support for Secure Shell (SSH)